8.6
pretty badTypical Repair Cost:
$2,319.00
Average Mileage:
97,196 miles
Total Complaints:
168 complaints
Most common solutions:
- not sure (61 reports)
- complete rebuild (47 reports)
- new tranmission (31 reports)
- ford needs to recall their faulty transmission (17 reports)
- new solenoid, pistol in tranny broken (6 reports)
- o/d light.... check engine light (4 reports)
transmission problem
This problem may be covered under warranty. Ask your Ford dealer.
Helpful Websites About 2002 Ford Explorer o/d light is blinking
2009Oct 15
Explorer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 72,000 miles
The o/d light started flashing on and off and the transmission slows. Took it and put it on computer and it said the pressure sensor valve in the transmission was bad. Fixed that, cost around $400. and didn't help at all. Now the transmission is slow to change and doesn't go into overdrive at all. I guess it needs new transmission or rebuilt. I think it needs to be recalled. Too many with the same problem.
2009Oct 17
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 63,349 miles
Count me in on this problem too. We purchased our Explorer used just 3 years ago and my wife drives it only about 5,000 miles per year, if that. The other day she was out running some errands and called me to tell me the O/D light was blinking and that the manual says to take it in for service immediately. We took it to our local Ford Dealer who we had to follow up with because they never called us to give us an update. The Service Consultant told me that the transmission is basically "fried" and that they can open it up to look at it and maybe do a "soft rebuild" at a cost of about $2,800. Or we can put in a rebuilt transmission that comes with a warranty for about $3,900. This is ridiculous! No wonder American car manufacturers are in serious financial trouble. I'm joining the masses and never buying a Ford again. As for my current problem, I'm going to take it to at least one transmission repair specialist for a second opinion...I have a feeling the dealership is going to be the highest quote that I find.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Oct 19
Explorer XLT 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 125,000 miles
My truck is falling apart. I've already fixed the EGR Valve, the rear wheel bearings and hub, plus a few other minor things and now need to do the tranny. This has all been done in the past 9 months. I'm not happy at all. It is comforting however to know that I am not the only one with a piece of Sh**. Unfortunately this is the worst fix yet and not sure what I'm gonna do.
2009Sep 19
Explorer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 96,000 miles
I am in the middle of trying to buy a house. From what I am reading this is not good. I don't have the extra money for fords problem. Let me know what u think. My trans feels like its slipping or the something in the drivetrain and my o/d will flash non stop until I shut the truck off. But the slipping will happen without the light on.
2009Oct 17
Explorer Eddie Bauer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 97,000 miles
When I found my Explorer I loved it. It had 55,000 miles. The computer had some glitches from the start(constantly thinks a door is ajar, even though they are all closed) but I loved the car so much I overlooked it. The car rolls pretty far after shifting into park, so I have to make sure I don't park too close to anything, especially on an incline. There is a very very loud whine coming from the rear drive train that started about 10 to 15000 miles ago, but wasn't sure if it had always been there and I just hadn't noticed it, or even if there was a way to fix it so I have been trying to ignore it. My brakes are new, and still make a great deal of noise, and yesterday at 97000 miles we were driving about 50mph and the car beeped and the check transmission light came on, and the overdrive light is blinking, and the shifting between gears is extremely rough. Our mechanic said Ford is known for crappy transmissions and that the computer said it is a solenoid problem, but if you replace the solenoids usually in a few months you have the same problem again, because it is really the computer causing the problem. I am extremely frustrated because vehicles are expensive and the manufacturer should give you what you pay for. Nobody has that kind of money to just throw away. I will never buy another Ford again.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Oct 16
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 43,974 miles
I was stopped at a traffic light and heard a strange grinding noise. Then it just stopped. So I continued to drive to my destination. Got off and did I what I needed. Came back and started the truck no noise or problem. Was driving along and all of the sudden my O/D OFF light began blinking. I opened my manual and it says BRING IN FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY. This is the third time that I have had a problem with my transmission, and the dealer doesn't want to do much about it. Of course I vehicle is now past the warranty period, so anything that will need to be repaired will be up to me. I love how they made sure that the third complaint fell after warranty and they think that they will not have any responsibility for repairs.
2003Jul 06
Explorer Limited 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 40,000 miles
OK THE CAR WAS ABOUT 7 MONTHS OLD AND I HAD TO GET TRANS FIXED THEN I HAD IT FIXED 5 TIMES AFTER THAT ..... NOW I HAVE 150000 ON CAR AND IT HAPPENED AGAIN AND THERE IS NO WARRANTY. NOW WHAT ... BULLL SH*T I SAY
2009Oct 07
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 60,000 miles
Make me complaint #269 on Ford Explorer 4.0L V6 auto transmission problems...at 60,000 miles! Same problems as so many before me...driving along, bells ring, message panel says "Check Transmission," O/D lite is flashing. Stop, shut down restart and all seems ok. Starts ok through first and second gear but won't go into third...at 40 mph still in third. Let up on accelerator and then start back up and hard kicks into third gear and bells ring, message panel lights up and O/D flashing. Take in for a diagnostics, three fault lites: O/D sets, third gear bands, solenoid...$3200 to fix!. This car has been babied and is in great shape...it's now worthless...should have taken the cash for clunkers! Pouring salt in the wound is I had a 1993 EB and it's trans failed at 108K miles. I should have learned. Ford...I'm done with you!!
2008Oct 01
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 158,450 miles
FORD NEEDS TO RECALL THESE TRANSMISSIONS!! They're currently trying to save their company in this crappy economy... well GOOD LUCK!! The transmissions are CRAP and their customer service surrounding the issues sucks!
We bought our 2002 Ford Explorer Ed, used about 3 years ago (in 2006). After only a few months of driving the OD light began flashing, gears wouldn't shift properly etc! We've plowed $3200 into rebuilding part of the transmission and another $1000 into replacing the solenoid. The partial tranny rebuild fixed the problem for 8 months, and the solenoid has done NOTHING!!
The car still has a tough time shifting into second gear, the OD light continually flashes, and the check engine light won't go away!
I CANNOT BELIEVE Ford is still in business! The caliber of these cars & their parts are SUBPAR! I think Ford should replace all of the transmissions in the 2002 Ford Explorers with a newly designed transmission - one that won't crap out after 50K!!
I think we need to call in the media and get them to chase Ford into fixing our cars!! Call your local TV station about this issue. We need to be heard!!
My family has always been a big fan of GMC - I went against the grain and bought a Ford. THAT is a MISTAKE I will never make again!
Not only is Ford unwilling to help with the transmission issues, its like pulling teeth to try to give this car away let alone sell it!!
DON'T BUY A FORD!!!
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Sep 01
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 76,000 miles
VERY SORRY THIS HAPPENED TO YOU.......ALL FORD HAS TO SAY ABOUT THE FAULTY TRANSMISSION ON MY 02 EXPLORER EDDIE BAUER WITH 76K MILES . WE DID PREFERRED AMERICAN INSTEAD OF IMPORTED CAR FOR THE FIRST TIME AND WE ARE PAYING A BIG PRICE SINCE FORD AND THE FORD DEALER WHERE WE BOUGHT IT ARE OF NO HELP AT ALL.
I AM LIKE EVERYONE ELSE, VERY ANGRY AS TO WHY A RECALL IS NOT IN PLACE ALREADY, SO MANY OF YOU OUT THERE WITH THE SAME PROBLEMS., O/D OFF, JUMPING GEARS, NOISES, SEALED TRANSMISSION. VERY SAD DAY.
WHERE DO I SIGN FOR CLASS ACTION SUIT.................
2009Sep 21
Explorer Eddie V8
- Automatic transmission
- 135,000 miles
I need to join in on my experience driving home today from work with out warning o/d light started blinking and then the check engine service light came on . At my next stop then the transmission started having problem with shift from 2nd to 3rd gear.Bought the SUV in 2006 with 39k with two payment left to own the title . And now this ,I am planning to take the truck to the dealer in the morning , but sampling the others with similar problem I need to take out a loan, Has any one had a better way to correct the problem .
2009Sep 01
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 67,000 miles
Just another ford explorer owner with the same problem that every one has been screaming about.
1. OD light flashing with no warning at all
2. the transmission never slipped until after the light started flashing.
3. the dealer said that the trans needed to be serviced every 30k miles.
we had it serviced at 25k for a sensor problem covered under warranty
and we are just over the service by a few miles.I currently drive for work a chevy express van with over 167k miles on it with no service on the trans.(my boss doesn't believe in it.)
I would not be upset if I got at least 100k out of a trans.
2009Aug 05
Explorer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 160,000 miles
this should be a recall because for what i've heard this happens a lot an thats a mayor problem that is going to cost me $2000 and that realy sucks think twice before u buy a ford
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Aug 01
Explorer XLT
- Automatic transmission
- 75,505 miles
My 2002 Ford Explorer XLT has had a number of problems that I have never seen in any other car I've owned. Transmission is slipping, O/D light is flickering. Power window cable broke loose on rear right window. Rear window hatch door has split/shrank and cracked under the glass. Split right in the middle. Ford refused to replace and I have noticed that a number of explorers with the same back door setup have split in the same location. This is not death from over use. This is death from low quality standards. No more Fords for me.
2009Aug 14
Explorer 4.6L
- Automatic transmission
- 62,200 miles
I was trying to look for the quick fix I am sure that this is an electrical problem as this happened the day after the lights were left on all day. I had the od light blink but every now and then the trans will slip or not go into gear. I also notice when I hit a bump the light goes off/
I will be real pissed if I need to put in a trans and it is only a quick fix. I also can not believe how many people are having the same problem. If any one has a quick fix please post it.
2009Aug 13
Explorer V6
- Automatic transmission
- 102,090 miles
This is the SECOND time we've gone through this. O/D light blinks, and leads to torque converter. First time cost us $2100 at Ford. Eight months later--the SAME THING happens again! If we didn't still owe money on this POS I'd take it to be scrapped. Seriously, if there's anyone considering a class action, count me in.
2009Jun 15
Explorer XLT V8
- Automatic transmission
- 90,000 miles
Just like everyone else: O/D light blinking, Service Engine Soon ON w/ diagnostic code for solenoid problem. Transmission shifting from 2nd to 3rd was problematic.
Independent mechanic stated that because of the nature of the problem, car needs to be taken in to a transmission shop. I didn't even bother...unbelievable that after only 90,000 mi., 7 years, the transmission failed.
Only saving grace is that it was still drivable and that I got $4,500 under the CASH FOR CLUNKERS program. Never will buy another American car (GM, Ford, or Chrysler).
2009Jul 10
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 130,000 miles
Email sent to Ford
O/D Light flashing and slams into gear. This is the second time I've had this problem. My cost to fix $1'500.00. Now I'm looking at another $1'500.00 to $2'500.00 to get this fixed. I've not contacted the dealership because I know what the problem is. The first time, I took this POS to the dealership, and it cost me close to $200.00 for them to tell me that my transmission was shot. I can not afford to keep dropping 1-3k a year into this car. I and others with this same problem want to know why you've not recalled the transmission on your 02 Explorer's? or do we all need to get together and seek legal advice? The first time it went out it was only 79k miles. Also, stop sending me those stupid things in the mail trying to get me to buy another Ford. After this, I'm not sure I want another one. All of my cars have been Fords until this. And think I've had just about enough.
2009Aug 01
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 132,000 miles
Guess I am in the same boat as everyone else with this POS. OD ligth started blinking, had a difficult time shifting from 2nd into 3rd gear and then the engine light came on. Error code was P0745. My mechanic is telling me that it is something internal and I will need to take it to a tranny shop. I have a feeling that this isn't going to end well !!! Please let me know if any of you have found solutions other than a tranny rebuild.
Thanks! ...... Definitely the last Ford that I will own!
2009Jan 01
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.6L V8
- Automatic transmission
- 96,000 miles
Purchased this fully loaded 2002 Eddie Bauer Ford Explorer 4x4 (81,000 miles) for my wife last year. I lost my job last year, and we had like so many, slipped in the steaming pile of financial dog crap. My wifes car ended up getting re- possessed, so i found this nice clean Explorer. It was not her $35000 new Nissan Pathfinder, but it did all of the same things. I paid $6,000 for the explorer, and put in another$500 in brakes and fluids. She was very happy with the truck. We were on our way to financial health when the transmission started shifting funny 2-3rd gear. Now I have purchased dozens of used cars and trucks, most of them Ford. I was not worried. Did a trans fluid change, and drove it for a while. Problem came back and was making some torque converter noise. Took it to the Ford dealer, and they said $1,700 for converter replacement. It was hard to do, but I had it done. Worked great for 6 months, and OD off light started blinking. Then the thing stuck in 3rd gear. Limped into the Ford dealer this morning, and the service advisor said "we will only warranty the problem we repaired. "This is clearly something else." I am a diehard Ford man. I rebuild Mustangs, own a ford diesel truck, and have loved every Ford product I have owned. I must say that this Explorer owner experience smelled bad from the beginning. Cant put my finger on it. Just never had any confidence in the vehicle. And there is more little quirky things it does. Lots of little electrical gremlins like chimes going off while driving and door locking at odd times, some sort of whistle coming from under the dash. The front driveline makes a horrible vibration at 70 MPH. The list goes on.....Well I am rambling, but I bet this thing is going to cost me another $2000 I dont have before I can get rid of it. I am on the edge of my seat waiting for the service advisor to call me and "advise" me on how far to BEND OVER. Seems like Ford is really dropping the ball on this one. Dont think I will for forget the pain i feel from this kick in the nuts they are giving me and so many other Explorer owners with the same silly problems. Do the right thing RECALL THE TRANSMISSION!!!!!!!
2009Jul 01
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 150,000 miles
It's sad that the pride in what our country produces matters not anymore. Bye Bye Ford.
2009May 01
Explorer 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 180,000 miles
When my car started hesitating and the OD light came on I took my car to the dealership to have them take a look at it. They looked at it and said that my spark plug wires we installed wrong and that is what the problem was. They fixed that and I left a couple of days later started doing the same thing, took it back again and they told me that the spark plugs that were used were not recommended by Ford. Now $300 later and new spark plugs it is still doing the same thing only this time my service engine light came on. I don't have the $3000 to repair the POS and on top of that we owe more than what it is worth.
2008Dec 19
Explorer XLS 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 100,000 miles
Add me to the list. Transmission started slipping and then skipping 3rd gear and wont go into overdrive. Took it to two transmission places and both places said it was going to cost over 2 grand to fix the problem with a complete overhaul. Now I dont know what to do. I have called multiple dealers to see what they would give me for trade in value and the best offer I have had is 1,000 dollars. I still owe 5,000 on this peice of crap. I have called Ford only to find out that there is no recall and their answer was they could find me a close certified Ford dealer for me to take it to to have it fixed. Ford has left me with no choice but to buy a used transmission for it and trade it in ASAP. I feel awful for the next poor person that purchases it but I dont know what else to do. The rear end is starting to whine and its next to go. Im not putting anymore money into this sinking ship. As for Ford, you just lost another costumer! >: I
2009Jun 18
Explorer Limited V8
- Automatic transmission
- 80,000 miles
Great add me to the list of people with this piece of crap SUV. Transmission totally trashed.Going to cost me over $2000 to get one rebuilt.This is the second explorer
I have owned. The first one was a 1998 XLT. I never had any problems with. Traded
it in for the 2002 when it reached 100,000 miles.Maybe I should have kept it!!!!!!
2009Jun 11
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 107,497 miles
We purchased this vehicle in January and have already put close to $10,000 into this vehicle. This month, the day before we were to take in for an oil change, the OD light started blinking. The next day, we find out we need to have the transmission re-built - cost $3800. This vehicle seems to have all the "typical" Explorer problems - the back panel is split, the seat belt/air bag light is permanently on, the power steering pump is laboring, it clunks when it is put into reverse . . . the list goes on and on. Sure wish we checked out this site before we got this vehicle. It really is a piece of &^^%%%*#()) - it has cost us a bundle -which we don't have. How do you get rid of an awful vehicle - sure don't want to pass these problems onto someone else!!!!!!!
2009Jun 06
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 55,500 miles
I just had to replace the bands in my 02 explorer transmission. Cost me $1600. I have talked to others and did my research and found out many others have had this problem. The overdrive light flashes and the rpm and the mph don't match up and the car has trouble kicking into gear. Also, many explorers i see have a crack under the back windshield. It is a straight line and all in the same place. We should get a class action lawsuit to get resolution.
2009Jun 07
Explorer XLT 4.6L
- Automatic transmission
- 90,014 miles
O/D light blinking! Trans. rebuild at 34K, 47K, 57K and other related malfunctions in between directly caused from faulty repairs at the dealership. Independent trans. shop now on top of the situation. Only cost around $400.00 this time. Lucky for me the owner knew about some type of fix for the torque converter melt down that caused the OD light to blink this time. Looking for more problems.
2009May 14
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 62,137 miles
i was in my way to Jordan ( from Riyadh ) then the o/d off light start to blink i contact the dealer and he told me to turn off the truck for about 15 minute when it comes after 4 hours the transition oil started to fall on the street and the car stopped i returned to Riyadh then my car returned with warranty service .
2009Apr 06
Explorer XLS 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 112,000 miles
Ford lost another customer when my transmission went out like SO MANY others. I still owe more than the POS is worth but am wondering if it wouldn't be worth it just to let someone else have the headaches. In two and a half years I've replaced both rear wheel bearings,one front hub and had to replace the 4 wheel drive module @ $200.00 before 75000 miles Now the transmission is going fast. I really hope Ford realizes how this affects their future. If a class action suit starts count me in. That's all I really want to deal with Ford about from now on.
2009May 22
Explorer XLS V6
- Automatic transmission
- 122,000 miles
After getting the oil changed and the steering fluid replaced, the o/d off light started blinking on and off. Went to a Ford dealer and they said it was a solenoid problem that would cost $1200 to fix. Went to a reputable repair shop and said the transmission needed to be replaced for $2400-2800. Strange, as I didn't notice any change in the performance of the car (although I had noticed that there was something strange with the shifting from 3rd gear from the moment the car was purchased at 50,000 miles). Is it unsafe to still drive this car without getting it fixed?
2009May 29
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 92,000 miles
the same problem as everyone else. O/D light starting blinking, the trans. slipped. $2,200 later, a complete rebuild later, truck is back on the road. I contacted ford about this problem. FORD DOES NOT STAND BEHIND THERE PRODUCT.
2009Feb 01
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 70,000 miles
Here's my response from Ford about my earlier complaint .....
We have reviewed the situation, and unfortunately, there are no warranties, Field Service Actions/Customer Satisfaction Programs on your vehicle that would provide assistance for this repair. However, we do suggest that the repair be done by a Ford/Lincoln-Mercury dealership where the technicians are trained to put your vehicle back into factory specifications, and any Ford covered parts replaced will come with a 12 months/12,000 miles warranty.
2009May 19
Explorer XLS V6
- Automatic transmission
- 111,000 miles
I bought this car new in 2001. I now have 111,000 miles and the O/D light is blinking and the check engine light will come on as well. I have it in the shop right now, but, based on what I've seen so far, it looks like its going to be expensive. Wish there was a cheaper solution to fix this car. I might be able to get $2500 on a trade in as is. IF I go and fix it for big money, $2300 or so, then I'm just throwing money away. Not good, really not good!
2008Jul 11
Explorer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 108,000 miles
First the transmission past warranty, then both back springs snapped in half 2 months later, and now the rear bearings went while I was going 50 mph on the highway and was all over the two lanes and was able to pullover without any contact with any other car. My wife and I can't afford to fix these problems right now so we will have to go back to using one vehicle.
2009May 14
Explorer XLS 4.0l
- Automatic transmission
- 79,000 miles
While going across an intersection,on a highway the o/d light started blinking and the transmission quit working.Their was an semi coming who had to slam on his brakes and swerve off the road to avoid killing me and my children.Had diagnostics ran and came back with codes #po733 and #po745, intermediate bands are screwed the transmission needs rebuilt,
THEIR IS A SERVICE BULLETIN OUT ON THESE
2009Mar 30
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 76,089 miles
I also bought a 2002 ford explorer with 19,000 miles on it also thinking what a great deal I have had the truck for 3 years it now has 76,000 miles on it.
The check engine light has been coming on and the O/D light will start blinking I tow a boat so I took it to a transmission shop they said it was very common for this to happen with the year of truck that I have. They said the cause was servo piston bore what ever that means they also said that if I don’t repair it for $2,400.00 that the lights will continue to come on and the truck will continue to slip.
The other weird thing is I'll be driving and I hear a ding you know the sound you have when you leave your keys in the truck but I'm driving my truck when this happens and the door lock will go off like I'm locking the doors.
I really love my truck the body is in excellent shape I still owe on my truck so buying something new isn’t an option. The sad thing is I tow a boat every weekend and I’m worried that something might happen.
2009Apr 30
Explorer
- Automatic transmission
- 78,000 miles
We bought a 2002 ford explorer with 19,000 miles on it. thought we were getting a good deal, but turned out to be a headache. The dealership we bought it from is no help at all for any problem we had with the truck and we had a few. This last problem is the O/D light blinking. The cost to fix the trans is $3200. They said we lost 2nd and 5th gear??? where did we lose it???
2009Apr 28
Explorer XLT 4.6L V8
- Automatic transmission
- 105,662 miles
just like the other people same problem o/d light flashing and check engine light on. went to a transmission specialist he said common problem on this vehicle and a tranny rebuild on the order of $1500-$2500. I would like to get rid of the vehicle but other than the transmission problem, I still owe on the vehicle it still in good condition ford needs to step up to the plate and fix this known problem for free and stand behind their product
2009Mar 28
Explorer LX 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 130,000 miles
click to see larger images
Complaint Photos
The O/D light is blinking in my 2002 Ford Explorer. Ford should do something about it. I will NEVER BUY FORD AGAIN!
2009Feb 27
Explorer XLT 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 59,543 miles
READ THIS!!!
Took a look at this website when my transmission gave out a couple of months ago, thought i was going to need a new tranny ($4,000). I put it off because i did not have the money to pay for it up front... I finally brought it to ford this week and told them my problem. THEY RETURNED THE CAR NEXT DAY, ford developed a computer upgrade to fix this problem ( LOST GEARS, O/D FLASHING, HARSH SHIFTING INTO REVERSE AND DRIVE). My Explorer now runs better than ever... ONLY $200... posted this to help people out...
READ THIS!!!
2009Apr 06
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 139,469 miles
I have a 2002 Ford Explorer with an automatic transmission that is going bad. I see that this is a common issue and Ford is fully aware of the faulty product they've sold. One day the car is fine and the next day my light when on - out of the blue. I didn’t know there was a problem until my O/D off light is blinking & the service engine soon light is always on. Plus, CHECK TRANSMISSION LIGHT is also lit up. This all happened with absolutely NO warning. I feel the car is dangerous to drive and am not sure what I am going to do....except I know I cannot drive it anymore. I have three young children that are in this truck all the time. This truck is just trash. I've only made a few payments on it and now it's going to cost me over $3,000 to repair, which is almost what the car is worth at this point. I was always one to stick up for American cars but Ford is really making it hard to do anymore.
I wish I knew about all the 2002 Ford Explorers are having this issue before I bought it. Let me say, I can't believe there has been this many problems with the Ford Explorer Transmissions. I thought I just had bad luck until finding the “AUTO BEEF COMPLAINT” web site! I will say that this Ford is the FIRST and LAST I will ever own. There will not be a problem about leaving it behind.
If you do an internet search there are THOUSANDS of people with this SAME EXACT issue. Some vehicles report as low as 20,000 miles when the transmission fails. Ford should be held responsible for putting transmissions that are obviously FAULTY. Read the thousands of complaints out there from the hard working people who use to trust Ford. I think the Ford Explorer has been the #1 selling SUV in America for years! I really can't understand why. And with selling that many vehicles, if you where Ford and you ever had a major engine or transmission issue of course you wouldn't admit it, they would be out of business.
But FORD says it's not a safety issue. I am so outraged by the number of complaints for the same thing, how can they turn theirs heads and say that it’s not a safety issue. There are too many complaints about this problem…and it costs too much to fix. I still owe $7,000 on my vehicle. I also will never buy another Ford. I have been reading hundreds of the same problems and Ford will not contact these owners and attempt to correct such an injustice.
Ford knows of this problem. Bye-Bye Ford---I will trade this truck in and buy a Chevy, Dodge, GMC or Toyota. Ford doesn’t think they have any obligation or responsibility for the truck because it is no longer under warranty. But they made a defective product and now they should take responsibility for it…what’s wrong with this picture? You would think Ford would have some integrity and do an automatic recall instead of giving people a line, of whatever you want to call it.
After reviewing the customer problems with this truck I wish I did my homework because I would never had bought it. Ford needs to realize that the transmissions in this year are a piece of crap & they need to step up to the plate & reimburse ALL of us. I plan on taking further legal action if nothing does get done about this problem. I hope other owners will do the same.
I wrote and complained to Ford (pretty much as I wrote here, but nicer). Here is there reply...
"Thank you for contacting the Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center regarding the transmission concern on your 2002 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer. We understand how frustrating this experience has been for you. However, we have reviewed your situation, and there are no warranties, recalls or customer satisfaction programs on your vehicle that would provide assistance for this repair. Furthermore, Ford and the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) work together to proactively identify areas of concern through investigation of consumer and dealer feedback. During an investigation Ford cooperates fully with NHTSA. Ford does not speculate on the outcome of any current investigation or future actions. Due to our rigorous safety standards and constant testing, not all issues result in Field Service Actions or Customer Satisfaction Programs. If a concern is noted, a recall is conducted to remedy a safety or emissions concern in the interest of customer satisfaction and environmental responsibility. Field Service Actions or recalls are released to ensure the appropriate corrections are performed promptly by an authorized Ford or Lincoln-Mercury dealer. Ford will notify customers by mail if a program is announced on a specific component.
Sometimes e-mail communication does not allow us to gain additional information that may be helpful in responding to your inquiry. Should you feel that we have not adequately addressed your questions, please feel free to contact us via telephone at (800)392-3673 between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm, local time, Monday through Friday. Hearing-impaired callers with access to a TDD may contact 1-800-232-5952. Please provide your 10 digit reference number - 1522711049.
Sincerely,
Julie
Customer Relationship Center
Ford Motor Company"
2009Apr 12
Explorer XLT V6
- Automatic transmission
- 160,000 miles
Well I get to join the group of angry Ford owners!!!! My truck started with the blinking O/D light and then the service engine light started flashing. The dealer says we need to rebuild the transmission, which sucks but is necessary if i want to continue driving. If enough people CALL THEIR DEALERSHIPS with the problem Ford will eventually (that being the key word) have to fix.
2009Apr 09
Explorer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 131,000 miles
First it was my rear end that has been whining and vibrating everytime I make a turn at slow speeds. Now my overdriver light is blinking like crazy and the transmission isn't shifting right. It shifts really hard and makes a loud clunk when it goes into great. These explorers should have been called exploders, because thats all they do. I will never buy another Ford Explorer. I love the layout of the vehicle and the way it rides and drives, but if the drive train is made of pot metal, then it wont do you any good to sit in the seat and grip the steering wheel. Don't buy an explorer. Ford doesn't honor the lemon law on these cars.
2009Apr 06
Explorer V8
- Manual transmission
- 108,000 miles
My Explorer will not even move now and the o/d light will not shut off. It just keeps blinking. Any ideas?
2009Apr 01
Explorer XLT 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 120,000 miles
Second time with this problem. First occurred @ 50k miles. Last time it was only $1000 to replace valve in transmission. This time I need a complete rebuild. I have owed 3 explorers since 1992. The other two were junked because of transmission problems even though the engines were still running in good condition. Will never buy a ford again!
2009Mar 02
Explorer XLT 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 132,000 miles
O/D LIGHT IS FLASHING. IT IS ANNOYING. PLUS MY TRANSMISSION IS NOT SHIFTING RIGHT. IF I HAVE TO SLAM ON THE BRAKES, IT WILL LOCK UP. ALSO WHEN I TAKE OFF, I NOTICE WHEN I FIRST TAKE OFF, I NOTICE A SLIGHT HESITATION LIKE THE RIGHT REAR END IS SLIPPING. ALL IN ALL THE VEHICLE SUCKS.
2009Mar 23
Explorer XLT 3.2L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 92,700 miles
I am in the same boat as all these other folks. WOW what a help it has been reading these posts. The numbers are staggering! My O/D light is lighting up like a disco ball. From reading these posts I have come to find out that it is a transmission problem. I bought my Explorer used at 75,000 miles in April 2008. She runs well, but now at 92,700, this problem has arose.
Today I took it to the repair shop at the dealership where I purchased it. I have an extended care warranty that SHOULD cover this, and I am waiting for them to get back to me. The only thing I am concerned with is, according to folks on here, I might experience this problem again in about 30,000 miles. By then, watch....the warranty will be expired! THEN I WILL BE REALLY PISSED!!!!!!! On the Carfax report it stated this was a Rental Fleet vehicle which under normal circumstances they are extremely well-maintained. So I felt good about that. Only other problem that I see with this truck is a "Door Ajar" light when no door is ajar! I hope and pray that I have no more problems with a rebuilt transmission until I am able to purchase another vehicle.
Everyone out there wish me luck!!!!!!
2009Mar 23
Explorer Eddie Bauer 4.0L V6
- Automatic transmission
- 109,000 miles
As I was taking my car back to an independent dealer for another issue with my rear bearings/hubs, my check transmission message came on and my O/D light was flashing. Good thing I made it to the shop, seen as the car would not shift hardly at all between 2nd & 3rd gear and again at higher speeds. I had my 2 year old son in the car and it was quite a tricky situation here in Las Vegas...trying not to get run over!
My independent repair shop gave me the 2 codes that the computer was showing which was P0733 & P0745 (which is the solenoid issue). They quoted low of $2,100 up to $3,000 to fix. I read another website and they said that you can call Ford on their toll free customer service number and open a complaint and they may do a "goodwill repair". Since I cannot get my car to the Ford dealer, I would have to have it towed and who knows what they would charge. I will just follow up with a letter and a call to the NHTSA. I would recommend others to call Ford at (800) 392-3673 and file a report and the NHTSA. This is the only way things will get better.
2009Mar 22
Explorer Sport 4.0L
- Automatic transmission
- 114,000 miles
I have owned my 2002 Ford Explorer now for 4 years and have never had a problem until this week. This car is only used 1 mile each way to and from work then parked all day and all weekends...so tell me FORD how the hell do I manage to get my transmission all screwed up? Solenoid my ass! Even if it's the solenoid pack, you still need to open the transmission to fix it. Guess what? $2,300 down the drain.....no wonder US auto makers need a bailout. You should try hiring the Japanese to make your cars.
MY NEXT CAR WILL NOT BE AN AMERICAN ONE!
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A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
2009Aug 14
Explorer XLT 4.0L
ANOTHER sad explorer transmission problem driving down interstate 95 1300 miles from home overdrive light starts blinking within 1 hour tranny starts slipping we find ford dealer in orlando florida pull in on a friday at 4 pm and they tell us they cant look at it til monday when we go to leave the dealership the vehicle will not move at all thank god my mom lives in kissimee and is only 15 mins away. we fly home and i start to figure out the best way to fix this piece of crap .Over the next 2 months i get quite an education on this tranny from a variety of transmission shops salvage yards auto mechanics and several other people in the auto industry. to make a long story short Ford is aware of the problem and it was actully discovered early enough for them to change several parts in the unit mid year but they dont tell anyone this but they will sell u an upgrade for around 250 bucks that will fix this.
I WILL NEVER BUY A FORD AGAIN.if anyone knows how to start a class action law suit u have my support call me at 570 470 1514 my name is JIM
Jim O.
Hawley, PA, USA
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